Choosing the World Cup Best XI: Who will shape the Team of the Tournament?

Under the bright lights of the stadium, fans watch the 2026 World Cup with only two matches remaining, a feast of stars and storylines where few have missed the spotlight. The tournament’s youngest hope, Lamine Yamal, and its oldest marquee, Cristiano Ronaldo, have both delivered big‑time plays despite limited scoring impact and scrutinised minutes. Picking a World Cup Best XI now feels especially tough, as every selection carries weight toward the Team of the Tournament. Some wonder whether the World Cup Final will determine the next Ballon d’Or winner, adding extra intrigue to the debate. Goalkeeper choices have sparked debate. Unai Simon has shone in the final four, while Jordan Pickford impressed during England’s run, yet many argue the spot belongs to an underdog such as Paraguay’s Orlando Gill, Venezuela’s Vozinha, or Switzerland’s Gregor Kobel, whose performances have been spectacular.

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Defensive contributions have also stood out. Spain’s fullbacks Pedro Porro and Marc Cucurella have drawn attention, overtaking Achraf Hakimi, while the tournament’s defensive stars have largely emerged from central‑back positions. In midfield, Enzo Fernández’s all‑over‑the‑pitch heroics earn him a place beside Golden Boot hopeful Rodri, while a recency bias favors Jude Bellingham over Harry Kane in a line‑up that must also accommodate Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland, all still alive in the race.

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The Golden Boot contest remains open as the third‑place match and the final approach, with Harry Kane, Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland all still in contention. A second Best XI pushes Orlando Gill into a back three with semifinalists Marc Guehi, Pau Cubarsi and Cristian Romero, protected by Aurelien Tchouaméni. Playmakers Youri Tielemans, Martin Ødegaard, Morocco’s Isamael Saïbari and reigning Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé add flair, while Kane leads the attack and Mikel Oyarzabal provides support.